The antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Zataria multiflora and Iranian and European Cumin were
evaluated, first as pure extracts and later as active agents incorporated in paper, manufactured at laboratory
scale as an active packaging material. Two different procedures were used for quantifying the
antioxidant properties and microbiological studies versus Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria innocua, Pseudomonas
sp., Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica and Escherichia coli were carried out. All bacteria were
inhibited when exposed to the atmosphere generated from 4% to 6% (w/w) of Zataria essential oil in the
active coating. Zataria showed the best antioxidant properties. The compounds responsible for the
antimicrobial and antioxidant properties are analyzed and discussed.